Twee studies van de rechterhand van Pieter Rink before 1931

Isaac Israels made these two studies of Pieter Rink's right hand, using what looks like a graphite pencil. See how the marks are so immediate, capturing the hand's form with such a loose, searching line. You can almost feel Israels working quickly, trying to nail down the essence of the gesture. I love how the simplicity of the medium really puts the focus on the artist’s process. The texture of the paper comes through, adding a subtle grit to the image. Look closely at the left hand. Notice the sharp, angular lines that define the knuckles and fingers, contrasted with the softer, more rounded shapes of the palm. It's like Israels is mapping out the anatomy, exploring the tension between bone and flesh. For me, these studies feel like a conversation between artist and subject, a fleeting moment captured in graphite. It reminds me a little of Degas’ drawings, that same interest in capturing movement and the human form with a kind of raw honesty. Art's not about perfect answers, right? It's about asking interesting questions, leaving room for interpretation, and embracing the beauty of imperfection.